New RV owner asks, ‘Is there anything I need to do to my RV awning?’

An RV owner in one of my Facebook groups wrote, “This is the first time using the awning as this camper is new to me. Is there anything I need to do to the awning other than extend it out? Adjustments? Greasing? RV awning maintenance, etc.?”

My suggestions and a basic checklist for RV awning maintenance

• Know the fabric. Vinyl and acrylic are the two main types of awning fabric.
  Acrylic fabric is not waterproof, but it is light and breathable, which allows it to dry faster.
  Vinyl fabric is durable and mildew-resistant, but it should never be stored until completely dried.
• Inspect the fabric regularly for tears. It’s a good idea to closely examine the awning fabric for holes every 3-4 months. This prevents small rips from getting larger and allows for repairs. Notice a tear? Don’t worry—fix it yourself!

• Clean thoroughly and regularly. We recommend that you hose off your awning every 3-4 months. This prevents dirt from building up and settling in.
• Secure your awning. Violent wind can wear on awning fabric. To preserve the fabric, securing your awning with these clips is helpful. You should also ensure that the knobs on the side arms are tightened before every drive.
• Never leave RV awnings open and unattended.

• Make sure you have insurance coverage for awnings.
• Make sure to always do a visual inspection of the star washers on the arm pins, any screws, rivets that secure springs or motors in place.

• Make sure that the main awning rail is not pulling loose form the side walls at both ends.

• Make sure to operate the unit in and out a number of times to exercise the lift shocks.
• You can use a dry spray lube on all the moving parts to ensure that they stay moving freely.

Hope this information is found useful and acts as a reminder to check your awnings to keep them safe and clean.

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Thank you,
Dustin

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